Hot Maintenance Posts
How To: Jump Start a Car
We've all been there before: We're in a hurry to get somewhere (often in bad weather), so we get in the car, turn the key in the ignition and.....WHUH! WHUH! WHUH! The darned battery is dead! After a stream of choice expletives (that is, if you're anything like me....;o)), we open the trunk and take out the jumper cables - but what if we don't know how to use them? Even if we do, we can often forget such things in crisis situations when we're pressed for time.
How To: Replace outer tie rod ends
In this video, Rich Pin teaches us how to replace an outer tie rod end on a vehicle. First, get the vehicle in the air supported on jack stands, and remove the tire wheel assembly. Next, put a mark on the top of the tie rod shaft so you know where to line it up when you replace it. Next, loosen the jam nut from the rod, remove that and the nut. Remove the tie rod end after this by shocking it with a hammer. When it is removed, replace it with a new part and then attach all the bolts and nuts ...
How To: Remove an automobile headliner
In this video, we learn how to remove an automobile headliner on a Saturn S-series. First, you need to remove the back cushion and then take the back rest on the seat, then lay it down. After this, remove the dome light and remove all the grab handles from the vehicle. Next, remove both visors and screws, then remove the mouth on the seat belt and bolts. After this, remove the cover on the back brake light, then the trim that runs along the side of the inside of the car on both sides. Once yo...
How To: Remove the dashboard and wheel to replace bulbs
In this video, we learn how to remove the dashboard and wheel to replace bulbs. First, remove the negative battery cable, then remove the steering wheel. Next, remove the cluster bezel, with Phillips head screwdrivers for the screws. Pull back on the bezel and remove the clips from the bottom by prying it apart. Remove the cluster next, followed by the top piece of the steering wheel joint. Once this is removed, you will be able to slide the cluster out and squeeze the cables to remove it. Fr...
How To: Replace the exhaust manifold in a Jeep Cherokee
In this video, we learn how to replace the exhaust manifold in a Jeep Cherokee. First, take the bolts out from the collective and set aside. Next, loosen up the collector and take out the bolts that are holding the manifold on. Then, remove the manifold from the vehicle. After this, install your new manifold in the same spot your other manifold was just in. Your next step will be to place the other parts back on that surround the exhaust manifold. Make sure all bolts are on tightly, then go i...
How To: Perform RV air conditioning maintenance
Jim Twamley teaches us how to perform RV air conditioning maintenance in this tutorial. It can be expensive to replace an air conditioner, cleaning it will help give it a longer life. First, remove the top of the unit by removing the screws from the front and back. After this, blow out the inside to make sure everything is nice and clean with air pressure. Next, clean the inside of the top of the unit with household cleaner and a clean rag. After this, replace the top to the unit and insert t...
How To: Replace windshield washer nozzles
In this video, we learn how to replace a windshield washer nozzle. First, use tape to mark where the wipers were at so you know where to replace them. After this, remove the wipers from the vehicle by using a wrench. Now, pop the hood of the car and remove the screws that are on the front of the car surrounding the nozzles. Once you get the top area removed, you will find the nozzle and hose underneath it. After this, replace the old nozzle with the new one and then put it back. When finished...
How To: Measure clutch fork pedal travel in a Saturn S series
In this video, Rick Pin teaches us how to measure the clutch fork pedal travel in a Saturn S series. First, remove the air box and the resonator box from the vehicle. Also remove the duct work from the vehicle and set aside. Once these are removed, you will be able to see the plate cylinder underneath where the air box was. To measure the fork travel, us a piece of wire with tape on it that has measurements listed. Push down on the clutch travel as you do this, then remove the wire and you wi...
How To: Replace the hubcaps on a 1931 Model A Ford
This great video will show you how you can replace the hubcaps on your old 1931 Model A Ford car. These classic cars can be difficult to take care of, but with these steps you'll be able to successfully change the hubcap without any hassle.
How To: Check for a vacuum leak in your vehicle to improve performance
In this video you'll look at different methods of discovering a vacuum leak in your vehicle wherever it may be. Word of caution: FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS VERY CLOSELY, there is a chance that you CAN catch your engine on fire if you do it wrong.
How To: Successfully check and maintain your brake fluid
Brake fluid is important, we all should know this. If you're in the city, then you know that once that stop and go traffic hits, you're going to want some good response out of your brakes. An in-depth look at checking the brake fluid and how to add more.
How To: Adjust the flame on your RV water heater
In this video, we learn how to adjust the flame on your RV water heater. First, open up the area where your gas valves are. Find the air opening to make a smaller air adjustment. The setting should be 1/4 of the way open. Snug down the locking screw when you have adjusted it properly. Now, you have to fire up the water heater by turning on the water heater switch first. Once the main flame is lit, you will see it with a nice blue color. Play with the adjustment some more until it's adjusted h...
How To: Change an RV electric plug
Many of us often faces the electric problem and one of them is power plug problem. When it goes down you need to change it.
How To: Wash And Detail Your Car Or Truck In 4 Steps
If you ever wondered how to keep your car looking great and protect the paint for years to come, read on.
How To: Remove brake drums easily
If you're having a hard time with removing the brake drums on your car, this next video tutorial might help solve your problem. In this quick tip tutorial from Eric the Car Guy, you'll find out some easy ways to help remove brake drums from your car easily. Some methods may seem easy and quick, but can lead to some pretty heavy damage on your vehicle. So if you need help, check out the tutorial and good luck!
How To: Replace the radiator and fan motor on a Saturn S-series
If you own a Saturn S-series and have found out that you need to replace the radiator and/or fan motor, this next tutorial is right up your alley. In this video you'll find out how to replace both parts to your vehicle. They're pretty important for helping a car run, so replacing them as soon as possible is a pretty big deal.
How To: Fix an overcharging battery problem on your RV
If you have a problem with an overcharging battery on your RV, you may want to tune in for this video. In this tutorial, the RV Doctor explains what may be the problem behin a battery that is continually overcharging. There are many possible reasons, but in this video is focuses on one in particular. So if you need help, check out the video above and good luck!
How To: Tell if a pulsing sound from a propane regulator is normal
Owning an RV can be considered a bigger responsibility than owning a normal car. Unlike a car, RVs can be used as a portable home on the road and features many things that a car doesn't have. Bathrooms, water faucets, electricity, etc. So if you begin to hear a pulsing sound coming from your propane regulator, then you may have a problem.
How To: Replace the serpentine belt tensioner on a Saturn S-series
If you have a problem with your vehicle's serpentine belt tensioner, you may want to replace it soon. This is designed to hold a certain amount of tension and needs to be replaced. This video uses a Saturn S-series to display how to replace the part, so it can apply to other cars, but it won't be exactly the same. So check it out, be careful, and enjoy!
How To: Fix a stickly RV slideout
If you own an RV and are having a hard time with putting your slideout back, then this next video tutorial may help. In the video, The RV Doctor talks about possible reasons why a slideout may be so hard to put back in after it was easy to take out. There are a couple of reasons for it, and the video describes what kind of problems you may be facing and what you may need to do. So good luck, be safe, and enjoy!
How To: Repack a Motorcycle Muffler
Periodically, motorcycle and ATV exhaust system can be rebuilt to maintain the proper performance and sound level expected from the exhaust system. My experience was with a dirt bike that had an aftermarket high performance exhaust installed.I bought my 99 XR400 second hand and was happy that it already had some nice mods. Namely the High Rev kit, performance header pipes with an E-Series muffler, and the suspension had been redone with higher spring rates. It has great response and the suspe...
How To: Remove your windshield washer tank
In this video, we learn how to remove your windshield washer tank. First, lift up the hood of the car. After you have done this, you will need to remove the outer light on the front of the vehicle with a screwdriver. Next, find the tank on the inside of the hook where the windshield wiper fluid is located at. After you have done this, make sure to disconnect any tubes and parts that go to this, then set them aside. If you are replacing this, you will need to put your new one in and then repla...
How To: Bleed rear brakes
In order to bleed your breaks, you will need the following: break fluid, a 10 mm socket wrench, and a wrench.
How To: Remove a rear inside door panel from a Saturn S series
In this tutorial, we learn how to remove a rear inside door panel from a Saturn S series. First, open the door and take off the handle to the door, then remove the screw inside of that. After this, unlatch the side of the door and unscrew the bolts from this. Now, go inside the side pocket of the door and remove the screws from that, then set aside. Remove the foam padding against the inside of the door, then loosen up the wires on the inside of it. Now you will be able to remove the door and...
How To: Install piston rings on a Porsche 914 rebuild vehicle
If you are rebuilding a Porsche 914, then you may wanna check out this next tutorial. In the video, you'll find out how to perform an important task that needs to be completed before the engine is put together. In this video you'll find out how you can install piston rings on a Porsche 914. It's not too difficult to do, but doing it wrong can result in a broken or damaged ring and that can cause them to become useless. So pay attention, good luck, and enjoy!
How To: Change the front wheel bearings on a Porsche 944 Turbo S
If you want to save a little dough so that you can use it to buy something more useful, performing your own maintenance on a car is a smart idea. Not only do you save money, but you get a bit closer to understanding your vehicle and how it works.
How To: Change the water pump, timing and balance shaft belts on a Porsche 944 Turbo
If you own a Porsche 944 Turbo and hate having to pay hundreds of dollars to fix or keep your care in tip-top shape, check out this next video. In the tutorial, you'll find out how to change the water pump and balance shaft belts on a Porsche 944 Turbo.
How To: Change the front main seal on a Porsche 944 or 951
If you own a Porsche, chances are you know how difficult it may be to work on it yourself without the proper help. Taking it to the mechanic is a safe way of making sure your car will be fine, but it's very expensive. Doing it yourself can be difficult, but if you have a good how to video or article it should be fine.
How To: Clean out the radiator on a Porshce 996
Radiators are another important part to the operation of a car. Not only do they help transfer energy from one place to another, but they can also be used for engine cooling as well.
How To: Pressurize a Porsche 944 Turbo's intake system
Do you think that you have a vacuum or boost leak on your Porsche 944 Turbo? Would you like to know, but not pay a mehanic a ton of money on something you can do easily? Then are you in luck! This next video tutorial is just what you need.
How To: Rid an RV of it's stench
In this tutorial, we learn how to rid an RV of it's stench. Typically, the stench that comes from the RV is just because it's a small area with a lot of condensation. There are a lot of products out there that will help absorb the smell and are made specifically for an RV. These will absorb the moisture that is inside of the RV so it doesn't smell any longer. Having these can help get rid of those nasty smells in your RV. Also, make sure you are cleaning the kitchen as well as the bathroom of...
How To: Properly use stands for your motorcycle
If you plan on doing repairs for you own motorcycle, there are a few tools that you'll need first. One of the most obvious is a stand. These help lift the bike and allows you to get into certain areas without having to worry about tipping the bike over.
How To: Replace the front brake pads on a 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250 motorcycle
If you own a 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250 motorcycle and need help with replacing the rear brake pads, this video is what you need. Instead of taking it to the dealership and paying a ridiculous amount of money, you can have it done yourself.
How To: Change the front brake pads on a 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R
Brake pads are essential when owning any sort of vehicle. Driving without them will without a doubt result in serious injury or death. So if you own a Kawasaki Ninja 250R motorcycle, then pay attention to this tutorial.
How To: Replace the chain and sprockets on a Suzuki SV650 motorcycle
Performing regular maintenance work on a car or motorcycle is a great way to not only extend the life of your vehicle, but save a lot of money.
How To: Replace the chain and sprockets to a 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250 motorcycle
If you own a motorcycle that needs some maintenance, taking it to the dealership is going to be costly. But doing it yourself, can be a great way to save on some cash.
How To: Check the coolant level on a Vespa GTS and GT200
If you own a Vespa or are thinking about buying one, then you'll need to know how to check the coolant level. This is important because coolant helps make sure that your vehicle runs smoothly and doesn't overheat.
How To: Fix a leak from an RV water drain
If you own an RV and are noticing a leak from the area of the RV water drain, you may a problem on your hands. Depending on certain conditions, it might be a bit problem or a little one depending on the exact location.
How To: Install an RV fan when wires aren't close by
If you're new to the RV world, then this next tutorial might help explain a problem you may experience. Installing an RV fan is a great idea, especially if it's able to take out the old air in your car and bring in new air.
How To: Change the brake pads on your car
In this video, we learn how to change the brake pads on your car. First, raise your car up on a jack, then remove your caliper. Set all the bolts aside, and make sure not to lose them and remember where each bolt goes. Now, pop the caliper lose with a screwdriver to pop it open. Now, remove the pads and replace new ones with the old ones. When you are finished, replace everything that you just removed. Replace the bolts where they originally went, making sure everything is in the right place....